Future innovative solutions to increase crowd management security in EU public spaces
Public spaces in Europe face increasing security threats, ranging from unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) attacks to chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear threats. These dangers, alongside the ever-present risk of knife attacks and urban riots, highlight the pressing need for robust security solutions. The EU-funded SHIELD4CROWD project focused on enhancing public space protection. With a consortium comprising Ministries of Interior, public transport operators, and security practitioners, the project aimed to identify critical vulnerabilities and innovative solutions.
A collaborative approach to threat analysis
The SHIELD4CROWD project tackled public space security challenges through collaboration with security practitioners and the user observatory group. This diverse team helped define 10 common security use cases based on real-world threats. These scenarios illustrated gaps between existing solutions and the needs of security practitioners. “During the S4C project lifecycle, a specific iterative methodology was used to converge on a single common security use case,” explains the project coordinator, Armand Raudin. This rigorous approach prioritised threats such as knife attacks, urban riots in train stations, UAV and UGV attacks, and bomb alerts. The final use case selected, ‘Terrorist attack and disinformation challenge at a transportation hub’, highlights the increasing complexity of managing public space security with two challenges: the development of a technology to detect weapons without disrupting the crowd flow in public spaces and the development of a technology to ensure strong coordination and cooperation between all the stakeholders.
Integrating ethical and legal considerations
Security technologies must balance effectiveness with societal and legal obligations. SHIELD4CROWD prioritised ethical considerations from the outset. The project produced a detailed report assessing challenges linked to European and national regulations, including General Data Protection Regulation. “The consortium adopted an interdisciplinary approach, linking security to social stakes and potential issues, to avoid a purely technology-centric perspective,” states Raudin. This ensured that the project’s outcomes aligned with broader public interests and respected privacy standards.
Innovative methodologies for pre-commercial procurement
Pre-commercial procurement (PCP) was a core focus of SHIELD4CROWD. The consortium followed European Assistance For Innovation Procurement methodology to prepare detailed tender documentation, ensuring a robust process. Activities included a state-of-the-art analysis, open market consultations, and cost-benefit assessments. These steps provided public authorities with a structured approach to adopting new security technologies. Lessons learnt during the project will guide future innovation procurement processes, creating a pathway for the deployment of advanced solutions across EU cities.
Long-term socio-economic impact
The outcomes of SHIELD4CROWD extend beyond the immediate goals of the project. By fostering international collaboration and promoting standardisation, the project paves the way for more comprehensive adoption of innovative security technologies. “By promoting the development and adoption of innovative security technologies, SHIELD4CROWD encourages the commercialisation of new technologies and stimulates economic growth within the security technology sector,” explains project coordinator, Céline Lor. The project’s emphasis on cutting-edge advancements, including AI, IoT, sensors, crisis management platform, ensures long-term progress in civil security. These solutions will not only improve public safety but also support a thriving market for security innovation in Europe. SHIELD4CROWD has set a benchmark for collaborative, ethical and innovative approaches to public space security. Through its work, the project equips public authorities with the tools to address current challenges while fostering resilience for the future.
Keywords
SHIELD4CROWD, security, innovation, public spaces, crowd management, Pre-Commercial Procurement (PCP), terrorist threats, interdisciplinary approaches, legal compliance
